Domestic Elevators

Nowadays, many homes are already equipped with their own elevators. Multi-level homes need elevators for ease and convenience. On the other hand, homeowners may need an elevator installed because of an aging loved one who cannot go up and down the flight of stairs in their house anymore. Domestic elevators are gaining popularity day by day because it somehow equates to comfort. And besides, there are affordable home elevators and high-end elevators to fit every budget.

Types of Elevator Operation

A domestic elevator uses the same concept as that of a commercial building elevator. But you have the option to select the type of elevator operation. The most common is hydraulic. This type needs to have a separate machine room in the house. But this is the safest type, especially in times of emergency. It also comes with a manual lowering system, which can be used during power interruptions. The next type is the traction elevator. This type has the elevator car suspended and has a counterweight to balance it. It is more environmentally friendly since it does not use oil to function, unlike the hydraulic elevator, and it also does not need a machine room. The last type is the pneumatic lift elevator, which is increasing in popularity for single-family homes. This type is operated by a pneumatic vacuum and a suction force moves the elevator cab up and down.

Which Elevator Type to Use

The type of domestic elevators to acquire depends on many factors. The first and most important factor is the buyer's financial capacity. The next consideration is your safety as well as other specific requirements. Space availability is also another factor. The hydraulic elevator is more expensive than the rest because it would require a machine room in the basement. Using this type is advisable if you are still in the construction phase, since it can be included in the foundation of the house. You might want to choose an outdoor home elevator so that the interior layout may remain intact.

Vertical wheelchair lifts can also be chosen if there is a physically handicapped family member in the house. Space needed is similar to that of a walk-in closet for the elevator cab and an extra six inches for the elevator shaft. However, there are many brands and makers of elevators such as Ameriglide, Day Elevators, Aquarius, and Mobilift, to name a few. You will surely find a safe and suitable type of elevator after a thorough search.

The Price of Domestic Elevators

To be honest, domestic elevators need a capital investment. It may cost you a huge amount of money since the cost of the elevator is not your only expenditure. A hydraulic elevator can cost from $10,000 upwards. The size, style, capacity and safety features mean additional charges. Installation costs, including the construction of a machine room may reach $10,000 or more. Building permits and inspection costs go from $200 to $1,000. But then again, the costs should not matter as much if comfort and convenience is the main goal.

The safety of the passengers should foremost be in your mind when choosing an elevator. Back-up battery systems, a phone line, and some emergency stops should be included. Annual service and maintenance costs should also be provided for the smooth and safe operation of the elevator at all times.